---
title: "From 1.7 % Zusatzbeitrag · TK vs DAK vs Barmer vs AOK 2026"
description: "Compare Techniker Krankenkasse, DAK-Gesundheit, Barmer and AOK for foreigners in Germany — Zusatzbeitrag, English support, app maturity, M10 electronic notification, voluntary GKV access."
lang: en
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            "text": "The 14.6 % base contribution is identical for every statutory fund by law. Funds compete only on the Zusatzbeitrag — the additional contribution each Krankenkasse sets individually. In 2026 the average Zusatzbeitrag is around 1.7 %. TK, BKK firmus, hkk and Audi BKK have historically sat below the average; DAK-Gesundheit, Barmer and most AOKs sit at or slightly above. The cheapest fund on paper is not always the cheapest in practice once English service, app maturity and processing speed are factored in."
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            "text": "TK ships English brochures and runs an English customer line; DAK-Gesundheit supports English at the urban branches and operates the M10 electronic notification needed for university matriculation. Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) and DAK-Gesundheit are widely seen as the most English-friendly of the large statutory funds. Barmer and the regional AOKs are gradually expanding English content but still default to German correspondence."
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            "text": "GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). All four are statutory health-insurance funds (Krankenkassen) and pay the identical GKV catalogue defined by the G-BA. TK and DAK are nationwide Ersatzkassen historically rooted in white-collar professions; Barmer is the second-largest Ersatzkasse; the AOK is a network of regional funds (AOK Bayern, AOK Plus, AOK Nordwest, AOK Rheinland/Hamburg and others). Differences are administrative — Zusatzbeitrag, app, English service, voluntary benefits (Wahltarife), bonus programmes — not in the medical catalogue."
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        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "Which Krankenkasse should a foreign student pick?",
          "acceptedAnswer": {
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            "text": "DAK-Gesundheit is the partner we work with on this site for the student GKV stream because of the M10 electronic notification flow and the Garantietarif 120. TK is an equally valid choice and is popular at TU Berlin, TU Munich and the University of Heidelberg. Whatever fund you pick, you need the M10 confirmation forwarded to your university Immatrikulationsamt before enrolment closes."
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        {
          "@type": "Question",
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            "text": "Yes, if your gross salary is below the 2026 JAEG threshold of €77,400/year. Above that threshold you may opt into substitutive private health insurance (PKV). Foreigners on a residence permit who do not yet qualify for either — newcomers, freelancers in the first months, family-reunion files — use approved Incoming insurance such as Care Expatriate from €58/month until GKV or PKV opens."
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        {
          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "What is the Zusatzbeitrag and how does it work?",
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            "text": "The Zusatzbeitrag is the additional contribution each Krankenkasse adds to the 14.6 % base rate. It is set individually by each fund and reviewed yearly. In 2026 the average is approximately 1.7 %. The employer pays half. If the fund raises the Zusatzbeitrag, you have a special right of cancellation under § 175 SGB V regardless of the 12-month minimum membership."
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          "@type": "Question",
          "name": "Are private Krankenversicherung carriers like Debeka or Allianz Krankenversicherung the same as a Krankenkasse?",
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            "@type": "Answer",
            "text": "GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). No. A Krankenkasse is a statutory GKV fund. Debeka, Allianz Krankenversicherung, DKV, Hallesche, Signal Iduna, Gothaer, Barmenia and Continentale are private health insurers (PKV) — separate legal regime under § 203 VVG, medical underwriting required, premium based on age and risk, not on income."
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          "name": "Does the Krankenkasse decide which doctor I can see?",
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            "text": "GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). No. Within the GKV catalogue you are free to pick any contract doctor (Vertragsarzt) — the eGK electronic health card works at any practice that has a Kassenzulassung, which is the vast majority. Specialist visits usually need a referral (Überweisung). Hospitals require admission via either the family doctor or the emergency department."
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            "text": "GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). Your fund continues to insure you. Within the first month after the end of employment you switch from compulsory to voluntary GKV membership (freiwillige Versicherung) or — if you draw ALG I — to ALG-I-insured status, where the employment agency pays the contribution. The fund cannot terminate you because of unemployment."
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      "name": "Largest German Krankenkassen for foreigners — TK, DAK-Gesundheit, Barmer, AOK",
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            "name": "Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)",
            "alternateName": "TK",
            "description": "Nationwide Ersatzkasse, strong digital app, broad bonus catalogue. Zusatzbeitrag 2026: 1.45–1.70 %. English service: Strong — English line, brochures, app."
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        {
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            "name": "DAK-Gesundheit",
            "alternateName": "DAK",
            "description": "Partner fund of this site; Garantietarif 120 student bonus, Fit & Travel. Zusatzbeitrag 2026: 1.70–2.00 %. English service: Strong at urban branches; M10 e-notification."
          }
        },
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            "name": "Barmer",
            "alternateName": "Barmer",
            "description": "Large second-largest Ersatzkasse, strong nationwide branch network. Zusatzbeitrag 2026: 1.70–1.99 %. English service: Limited — German default, English growing."
          }
        },
        {
          "@type": "ListItem",
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          "item": {
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            "@id": "https://www.krankenversicherung-auslaender.de/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/krankenkasse-comparison-tk-vs-dak-vs-barmer-vs-aok-germany/#aok",
            "name": "AOK (regional funds)",
            "alternateName": "AOK",
            "description": "Regional AOKs (Bayern, Plus, Nordwest, Rheinland/Hamburg, NordOst) — strong local branch density. Zusatzbeitrag 2026: 1.40–2.30 % (regional). English service: Mixed — regional variation."
          }
        }
      ]
    }
  ]
---

EN [+49 228 97735-44](tel:+4922897735-44)· German & English spoken 

[Health Insurance for Foreigners in Germany ](/en/)

-   Foreigners in Germany
-   Visa & Schengen
-   Studies & Language School
-   Expats
-   Employees
-   Retirees
-   Blocked Account
-   Guides

[All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

Language 

🇩🇪 Deutsch 🇺🇸 English 🇸🇦 العربية 

Main areas 

🌍 Foreigners in Germany 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — all foreigners in GermanyThe umbrella hub: every visa, every audience, recognised cover under § 5 AufenthG — start here. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Visa & SchengenFast insurance proof for embassy/foreigners' authority — short stays, Schengen visa, family visit. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Studies & Language SchoolAffordable long-term health insurance for international students, Studienkolleg, German courses, exchange students and PhD candidates. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Expats (long-term)Affordable long-term health insurance for expats, international skilled workers, freelancers and their families. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Employees (job start)Foreign employees, skilled workers with work visa, seasonal workers and people in the recognition procedure. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Retirees / parent reunificationAffordable long-term health insurance for foreign retirees, seniors and their partners, family visits. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)

More topics [Blocked account & visaAccepted for visa, Opportunity Card and university enrolment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[AustriaAffordable long-term health insurance for Austria. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Au-pair health insuranceAffordable health insurance for au-pairs in Germany, Austria & Switzerland — from €21/month. ](/en/au-pair-health-insurance-germany/)[Guides & FAQThe most common mistakes — and how to avoid them in 2 minutes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat does it really cost? Compare tariffs, prices and benefits. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

✈️ Visa & Schengen 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — visa & SchengenThe visa umbrella hub: Schengen, national D-visa, short stay and family reunification at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/)[Schengen visa (up to 90 days)Fast health insurance proof for the Schengen visa — meet embassy requirements and avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/schengen-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Short stay without visaAffordable health insurance for tourist and visa-free stays — easy, flexible and quick to apply online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/short-stay-health-insurance-germany/)[Visitors & parent visits (3 months to 5 years)Cover for visitors and parents — for stays from 3 months to 5 years, affordable and online. ](/en/health-insurance-visa-foreigners-germany/foreign-visitors-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Family reunificationFamily reunification: the right insurance proof for partner & children — so the application doesn't fail on missing documents. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/family-reunification-which-health-insurance-is-commonly-required-germany/)

Info & requirements [Insurance proof for the visaWhich insurance proofs embassies and immigration offices actually require. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/insurance-proof-visa-germany/)[Schengen insurance requirementsMinimum coverage, repatriation and validity area — so your proof doesn't fail on formalities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/requirements-schengen-health-insurance-germany/)[Documents & checklistWhich documents to prepare before the visa application — to avoid delays. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejectionThe most common mistakes with visa, proof and insurance — and what embassies pay particular attention to. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🎓 Studies & Language School 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — students & language schoolThe student umbrella hub: GKV, private student insurance, language course, Studienkolleg, exchange and PhD at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[International studentsAffordable health insurance for international students — with quick proof for enrolment, visa and study start. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-students-germany/)[Language school & German courseThe right insurance proof for language school & German course — so visa, embassy appointment and course start don't fail. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-language-course-before-study-differences-typical-mistakes-germany/)[StudienkollegAffordable health insurance for Studienkolleg — with quick proof for embassy, immigration office and course start, plus online application. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/preparatory-college-health-insurance-proof-registration-residence-germany/)[Exchange students & PhD candidatesSuitable health insurance for foreign exchange students & PhD candidates — for studies, exchange programmes, research and PhDs, with online application incl. insurance proof. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exchange-students-phd-students-health-insurance-germany/)

Info & decisions [Statutory or private student insurance?Statutory health insurance or private student insurance? Find out what really fits your status and study path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/statutory-or-private-student-health-insurance-germany/)[Student visa & proofWhich insurance proofs really count for visa, university enrolment and authorities. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/health-insurance-proof-enrollment-university-germany/)[GKV exemptionExemption from statutory insurance: what to know before deciding — so it doesn't become a problem later. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/exemption-from-statutory-health-insurance-students-key-points-germany/)[Blocked account & study startHow blocked account, university enrolment and health insurance interact — so your study start isn't delayed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🏠 Expats 

[Overview →](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — expats long-termAffordable & long-term: 6–60 months, family, freelancers, GKV vs private. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/)[Long-term expats in Germany (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Germany — with accepted proof. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/long-term-health-insurance-foreigners-germany/)[Long-term expats in Austria (6–60 months)Affordable long-term cover in Austria — accepted by MA 35. ](/en/health-insurance-foreigners-austria/)[Expats with family (partner & children)Affordable long-term cover for partner & children — no surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-with-family-joint-planning-partner-children-typical-questions-and-mistakes-germany/)[Freelancers & self-employed without an employerNo employer? Affordable long-term option — GKV or private, clarified fast. ](/en/expat-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-foreign-self-employed-germany/)[Transition without a job (job search / change / termination)Job change or termination: affordable bridge — long-term cover continues. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/expat-without-employer-during-job-search-how-to-stay-insured-germany/)

Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits expats?Which health insurance fits as a long-term expat? Avoid mistakes — so registration works and you can see a doctor when needed. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[GKV obligation or private solution? (quick check)Clear in 2 minutes: statutory obligation or private — so you don't commit to the wrong path. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/private-vs-statutory-health-insurance-expats-which-factors-typically-matter-germany/)[Proofs for authorities (residence permit, registration, etc.)Get authority proofs right: avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/checklist-documents-immigration-office-expat-insurance-proof-deadlines-germany/)[Family & pregnancy: what to watch forAlready pregnant or planning? Common pitfalls in tariffs (waiting periods/benefits) — so there are no nasty surprises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/pregnancy-health-insurance-expats-proofs-costs-doctor-germany/)

Get started [Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

Other groups 

💼 Employees 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — employees & job startThe employee umbrella hub: job start, Blue Card, job change, GKV obligation and employer proof. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-employees-germany/)[Job start in GermanySo your job start works: the right health insurance + proof, fast and easy. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)[Blue Card & skilled workersBlue Card & skilled workers: get insured properly, avoid mistakes — proof for employer and registration. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/bluecard-skilled-workers-health-insurance-proof-employer-registration-germany/)[Job change / new positionJob change made easy: stay insured, avoid mistakes, done quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/job-change-health-insurance-what-happens-with-insurance-and-prove-germany/)[Part-time, mini-job & probationPart-time/mini-job/probation: find the right health insurance — without a wrong decision. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/mini-job-midi-job-full-time-health-insurance-differences-germany/)

Info & decisions [GKV registration step by stepGKV in 3 steps: error-free, step by step — so you finish quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-registration-step-by-step-employees-germany/)[What certificate does the employer need?Employer proof: which certificate is really required — explained quickly. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/employer-asks-insurance-proof-what-must-one-submit-germany/)[GKV obligation: who must, who may choose?Who must join statutory insurance — and who may choose? Without mistakes. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/statutory-insurance-requirement-who-must-who-may-foreigners-germany/)[Documents & checklist for the job startJob start checklist: documents, deadlines, next steps — so you don't forget anything. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/common-mistakes-when-starting-in-germany-registration-checklist-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🧓 Retirees 

[Overview →](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — retirees & parentsThe retiree umbrella hub: parent reunification, seniors 60+, short visits and pre-existing conditions at a glance. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Parent reunification / bringing parents to Germany permanentlyBringing parents to Germany permanently: find the right health insurance — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/parent-reunification-health-insurance-germany/)[Foreign retirees/parents 60+ in Germany (6 months to 5 years)For parents 60+: find the right long-term cover — so doctor, hospital and authority proofs don't become a problem. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/long-term-health-insurance-seniors-germany/)[Short stay / visiting children (up to 90 days)For parent visits up to 90 days: affordable health insurance for doctor & emergency — incl. proof, quick to apply online. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/short-visit-seniors-health-insurance-which-coverage-commonly-required-germany/)[Retirees with pre-existing conditions & medication (special cases)Pre-existing conditions or medication? We show what's possible — clearly explained, no false promises. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/)

Info & decisions [Which health insurance fits retirees? (quick overview)Find the right solution quickly for age, stay and proof — before you choose wrong. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[Statutory possible for retirees? Or rather private? (quick check)Statutory or private as a retiree? Clear in 2 minutes — so you don't decide wrongly. ](/en/health-insurance-foreign-retirees-germany/statutory-or-private-health-fund-foreign-retirees-germany/)[Proof for foreigners' authority & residence permit (checklist)Foreigners' authority: submit the proof correctly — avoid common mistakes, save time. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/immigration-office-insurance-proof-which-details-should-appear-germany/)[Costs in old age: contributions, deductibles, typical pitfallsWhat does it really cost in old age? Contributions, deductibles and typical cost traps — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/costs-in-age-premiums-deductible-cost-traps-germany/)[Acceptance, exclusions & waiting periods (age/pre-existing)Age/pre-existing conditions: what's possible, what's excluded, what waiting periods apply — briefly explained. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/health-insurance-pre-existing-conditions-what-is-commonly-checked-when-taking-out-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

🏦 Blocked Account 

[Overview →](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — blocked accountThe blocked account umbrella hub: student visa, application, timing and Opportunity Card at a glance. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Blocked account for the student visa (national visa D)Combine blocked account + health insurance correctly — so the visa appointment doesn't fail. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-student-visa-monthly-rate-logic-and-health-insurance-proof-germany/)[Blocked account + visa applicationWhich proofs belong together (blocked account, KV, documents) — avoid common mistakes. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-and-health-insurance-for-visa-application-germany/)[Documents & checklist (blocked account)Which documents you really need — so nothing gets delayed. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-documents-checklist-providers-mistakes-the-delay-germany/)[Timing: when to open, when to take out insurance?Order & timing: blocked account + KV in time before the visa appointment. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/blocked-account-timing-opening-and-health-insurance-taking-out-before-visa-appointment-germany/)[Opportunity Card / stay without studiesWhen the blocked account is used for other purposes: what to watch for. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/opportunity-card-residence-without-study-blocked-account-health-insurance-proofs-germany/)

Info & decisions [Blocked account explained in 2 minutesWhat it is, what it's needed for, common misunderstandings. ](/en/blocked-account-visa-germany/)[Health insurance as proof for the visa (checklist)Which information must be on the proof — so the embassy/authority accepts it. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/documents-checklist-german-visa-health-insurance-germany/)[Avoid rejection (queries / proof errors)Top mistakes + quick fix — so you don't have to resubmit. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/avoid-rejection-of-insurance-proof-for-german-visa-germany/)[Which insurance fits at study start?How blocked account, university enrolment & health insurance interact. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/blocked-account-study-start-health-insurance-enrollment-germany/)[Blocked Account productIf you want to open the account directly: overview + application. ](/en/insurance-plans/blocked-account/overview/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

📚 Guides 

[Overview →](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)

Audiences & situations [Overview — guides & FAQThe guides umbrella hub: all topics, FAQs and checklists on health insurance in Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/)[Visa & residenceAvoid common mistakes before applying. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/visa-residence-germany/)[StudentsWhich insurance fits enrolment and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-students-germany/)[FAQShort answers to the most common questions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/faq-germany/)[Costs & benefitsWhat to look out for in affordable tariffs. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/costs-benefits-germany/)

More topics [ExpatsWhat matters during a longer stay. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-expats-germany/)[EmployeesHow employees avoid expensive wrong decisions. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-employees-germany/)[Language course / German courseWhich insurance is needed for language course and visa. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-language-course-german-course-germany/)[RetireesWhat retirees should watch for when moving to Germany. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-retirees-germany/)[StudienkollegSuitable cover for the time at Studienkolleg. ](/en/guide-health-insurance-germany/health-insurance-preparatory-college-germany/)

[Find a tariff Find the right insurance. ](/en/tariffinder-germany/)[All tariffs Overview of all tariffs. ](/en/product-overview-germany/)

[All tariffs](/en/product-overview-germany/)[Find a tariff](/en/tariffinder-germany/)

1 Step 1/3: Check plan (you are here) › 2 Step 2/3: Get PDF proof › 3 Step 3/3: Submit to authority 

[Compare funds →](#comparison-table)

1.  [Home](/en/)
2.  Guide to Health Insurance in Germany 
3.  Costs & Benefits Germany 
4.  Krankenkasse Comparison 

📑 On this page (5) 

-   [→ 30-second answer](#answer-box)
-   [→ TK vs DAK vs Barmer vs AOK — comparison table](#comparison-table)
-   [→ Which Krankenkasse for which foreigner profile?](#by-profile)
-   [→ Switching Krankenkasse — § 175 SGB V process](#switching)
-   [→ FAQ — 10 most common questions](#faq)

4.9/5 · 10,000+ policies since 2009 458 customer responses · [our own survey](/en/review-methodology/) 

# Krankenkasse comparison Germany: TK vs DAK vs Barmer vs AOK for foreigners (2026)

![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 18, 2026**  SourcesGKV-Spitzenverband · § 175 SGB V · § 241 SGB V · Fund self-disclosure 2026 

The four largest statutory health-insurance funds in Germany — Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), DAK-Gesundheit, Barmer and the AOK family — together cover roughly 75 % of all GKV members. The medical catalogue is identical by law; the differences are the Zusatzbeitrag (additional contribution), English-language support, app maturity and the speed of the M10 electronic notification needed for university matriculation.

This page is the foreigner-focused version of the German Krankenkasse comparison: who pays the lowest Zusatzbeitrag in 2026, which fund answers English emails, which fund matriculates students fastest, and how to switch from one to another under § 175 SGB V without losing cover.

Editor's note — this site partners with DAK-Gesundheit for the GKV stream because of the M10 electronic notification flow and the Garantietarif 120 student bonus. The comparison logic below applies to every statutory fund equally; pick the fund that matches your profile.

**Quick answer:** The 14.6 % base contribution is identical by law. Funds compete on the Zusatzbeitrag (average 1.7 % in 2026), English service, app maturity and M10 speed. TK is the largest, broadest-app choice; DAK-Gesundheit is the strongest student-friendly option; Barmer offers the largest urban branch network; AOK covers the regional federations.

## TK vs DAK vs Barmer vs AOK — side-by-side comparison

Krankenkasse

Members

Zusatzbeitrag 2026

English support

Strength

Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)

≈ 11.7 m

1.45–1.70 %

Strong — English line, brochures, app

Nationwide Ersatzkasse, strong digital app, broad bonus catalogue

DAK-Gesundheit

≈ 5.4 m

1.70–2.00 %

Strong at urban branches; M10 e-notification

Partner fund of this site; Garantietarif 120 student bonus, Fit & Travel

Barmer

≈ 8.6 m

1.70–1.99 %

Limited — German default, English growing

Large second-largest Ersatzkasse, strong nationwide branch network

AOK (regional funds)

≈ 27 m total

1.40–2.30 % (regional)

Mixed — regional variation

Regional AOKs (Bayern, Plus, Nordwest, Rheinland/Hamburg, NordOst) — strong local branch density

Sources: GKV-Spitzenverband public Zusatzbeitrag list, fund self-disclosure. Zusatzbeitrag ranges reflect 2026 announcements and are reviewed yearly. Not insurance advice.

## Which Krankenkasse for which foreigner profile?

-   **Foreign student under 30** — DAK-Gesundheit (M10 speed, Garantietarif 120) or TK (English service, large urban branch network).
-   **Employed expat under JAEG (€77,400/year)** — TK or DAK-Gesundheit lead on English support; Barmer and AOK valid if you prefer local branches.
-   **Family with children** — every GKV fund offers free Familienversicherung; pick on the Zusatzbeitrag and the bonus catalogue for paediatric check-ups.
-   **Self-employed foreigner over JAEG** — voluntary GKV at TK or DAK works; many opt instead for substitutive PKV (Debeka, Allianz Krankenversicherung, DKV, Hallesche) — see the costs-and-benefits overview.
-   **Newcomer not yet in GKV** — bridge with [Care Expatriate from €58/month](/en/insurance-plans/care-expatriate/overview/) until matriculation, employment or family-reunion processing opens GKV access.

## Switching Krankenkasse — § 175 SGB V process

After 12 months at one statutory fund you can switch any other Krankenkasse with two months' notice to the end of the second following month. If your current fund raises the Zusatzbeitrag, the 12-month rule is waived (Sonderkündigungsrecht). The new fund handles the deregistration of the old one — you do not have to file a separate cancellation. The new eGK electronic health card ships within 2–4 weeks; existing referrals stay valid.

## Frequently asked questions — Krankenkasse comparison Germany

## Frequently Asked Questions

Which Krankenkasse is cheapest in Germany in 2026? 

The 14.6 % base contribution is identical for every statutory fund by law. Funds compete only on the Zusatzbeitrag — the additional contribution each Krankenkasse sets individually. In 2026 the average Zusatzbeitrag is around 1.7 %. TK, BKK firmus, hkk and Audi BKK have historically sat below the average; DAK-Gesundheit, Barmer and most AOKs sit at or slightly above. The cheapest fund on paper is not always the cheapest in practice once English service, app maturity and processing speed are factored in.

Which Krankenkasse is best for expats and English-speaking foreigners? 

TK ships English brochures and runs an English customer line; DAK-Gesundheit supports English at the urban branches and operates the M10 electronic notification needed for university matriculation. Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) and DAK-Gesundheit are widely seen as the most English-friendly of the large statutory funds. Barmer and the regional AOKs are gradually expanding English content but still default to German correspondence.

What is the difference between TK, DAK, Barmer and AOK? 

GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). All four are statutory health-insurance funds (Krankenkassen) and pay the identical GKV catalogue defined by the G-BA. TK and DAK are nationwide Ersatzkassen historically rooted in white-collar professions; Barmer is the second-largest Ersatzkasse; the AOK is a network of regional funds (AOK Bayern, AOK Plus, AOK Nordwest, AOK Rheinland/Hamburg and others). Differences are administrative — Zusatzbeitrag, app, English service, voluntary benefits (Wahltarife), bonus programmes — not in the medical catalogue.

Can I switch Krankenkasse as a foreigner? 

Yes — the new fund handles the deregistration of the old one. The switch does not require any approval from the employer, the university or the Ausländerbehörde.

Which Krankenkasse should a foreign student pick? 

DAK-Gesundheit is the partner we work with on this site for the student GKV stream because of the M10 electronic notification flow and the Garantietarif 120. TK is an equally valid choice and is popular at TU Berlin, TU Munich and the University of Heidelberg. Whatever fund you pick, you need the M10 confirmation forwarded to your university Immatrikulationsamt before enrolment closes.

Do I need to be in GKV to work in Germany? 

Yes, if your gross salary is below the 2026 JAEG threshold of €77,400/year. Above that threshold you may opt into substitutive private health insurance (PKV). Foreigners on a residence permit who do not yet qualify for either — newcomers, freelancers in the first months, family-reunion files — use approved Incoming insurance such as Care Expatriate from €58/month until GKV or PKV opens.

What is the Zusatzbeitrag and how does it work? 

The Zusatzbeitrag is the additional contribution each Krankenkasse adds to the 14.6 % base rate. It is set individually by each fund and reviewed yearly. In 2026 the average is approximately 1.7 %. The employer pays half. If the fund raises the Zusatzbeitrag, you have a special right of cancellation under § 175 SGB V regardless of the 12-month minimum membership.

Are private Krankenversicherung carriers like Debeka or Allianz Krankenversicherung the same as a Krankenkasse? 

GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). No. A Krankenkasse is a statutory GKV fund. Debeka, Allianz Krankenversicherung, DKV, Hallesche, Signal Iduna, Gothaer, Barmenia and Continentale are private health insurers (PKV) — separate legal regime under § 203 VVG, medical underwriting required, premium based on age and risk, not on income.

Does the Krankenkasse decide which doctor I can see? 

GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). No. Within the GKV catalogue you are free to pick any contract doctor (Vertragsarzt) — the eGK electronic health card works at any practice that has a Kassenzulassung, which is the vast majority. Specialist visits usually need a referral (Überweisung). Hospitals require admission via either the family doctor or the emergency department.

What happens to my Krankenkasse coverage if I lose my job? 

GKV contribution: 17.8% of gross income up to €66,150/year (§ 241 SGB V, 2026 ceiling). Your fund continues to insure you. Within the first month after the end of employment you switch from compulsory to voluntary GKV membership (freiwillige Versicherung) or — if you draw ALG I — to ALG-I-insured status, where the employment agency pays the contribution. The fund cannot terminate you because of unemployment.

![Steffan Grund](/assets/steffan-grund-B5K5tUm9.jpg)Written by **Steffan Grund** Reviewed: **September 18, 2026**  SourcesGKV-Spitzenverband · § 175 SGB V · § 241 SGB V 

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Note: The content of this site is for general information and orientation purposes only. It does not constitute legal or insurance advice. For binding information, please contact the responsible Ausländerbehörde (foreigners' authority) or a lawyer. Last updated: September 18, 2026.